A relatively new form of recreation that originated in Hawaii is now spreading to the lakes of mid-America. At ocean beaches, the stand-up position offers the participant a better view of incoming swells, and on lakes and rivers it allows a modified surfboard to be propelled across relatively calm water.
Equipment-wise, the paddle is similar to those used for a canoe but much longer, about the length of a person's height plus a fully extended arm. The specially designed boards are wide, very stable and equipped with a rear fin. The trick is finding the sweet spot in the middle where one can stand comfortably, with weight evenly distributed on both feet. [SUP board] prices range from $800 to $1,500 with styles varying by materials and weight. Paddles cost from $100 to $400.
The SUP joins a long line of inflated shoes, modified bicycles, and other devices designed to allow a person to "walk on water." Local regulations may require a personal flotation device to be worn or carried on the board.
http://host.madison.com/entertainment/city_life/article_4aaa01c6-8aa5-11df-b092-001cc4c002e0.html. Image: Bill Ebbesen.
Comments (8)
$400 for a stick with a flat end???
I love when fringe activities hit the market and gouge the hell out of people dumb enough to think it's (and there for thru association they're) "cool".
When I was in middle school I would take my shoes off to run barefoot on the track. Then the whole Zola Budd/Mary Decker put an end to that.
Now you can buy fancy overpriced sneaks to run "barefoot" because that is the trend at the mo.
If you're so against it, go out in a canoe and stand in it instead of sitting, same effect.
p.s carbon paddles are worth every penny.
I thought it was just something the local surfers did to get to the open ocean rather than having to walk or drive there with their surfboards. I didn't think it was a form of recreation in and of itself (though it did look fun)! Interesting.